Disinfecting composition

ABSTRACT

A disinfecting composition for killing pathogens on various surfaces is provided. The disinfecting composition is environmentally friendly and is certified natural according to the ECOCERT certification for detergents. The disinfecting composition generally includes one or more Ci-8 alcohols and at least three surfactants. The disinfecting composition passes one or more of the following European standards at a contact time of less than or equal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN 13624.

BACKGROUND

Disinfecting or sanitizing compositions have become increasingly popularin the health care industry as well as with the general public forproviding antimicrobial effectiveness. Generally, these disinfecting orsanitizing compositions include alcohol or other antimicrobial agentswhich kill a wide array of microorganisms that may be present on the anynumber of surfaces. Compositions that kill fungi, bacteria, and virusesand are also safe for human contact are particularly important.

It has become increasingly popular to design compositions that arenatural or organic as such compositions are thought to be safer forhuman use and more environmentally friendly. There is a continuing needfor disinfecting products that are both environmentally friendly andhave improved efficacy against various bacterial, fungicidal, andyeasticidal strains.

SUMMARY

According to some exemplary embodiments, a disinfecting composition isprovided. The disinfecting composition comprises at least threesurfactants and at least about 20 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols.The disinfecting composition passes one or more of the followingEuropean standards at a contact time of less than or equal to about 1minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN 13624. Thedisinfecting composition is certified as a natural detergent underECOCERT standards

In some exemplary embodiments, the at least three surfactants compriseat least one anionic surfactant, at least one nonionic surfactant, andat least one amphoteric surfactant. In some exemplary embodiments, thesurfactants contain one or more of a betaine group, a sulfate group, ora glucose group and can be one or more of sodium laureth sulfate,cocamidopropyl betaine, and a C₈-C₁₆ alkylpolyglucoside. In someexemplary embodiments, all surfactants are from natural origin asdefined by ECOCERT.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes allof the following European standards at a contact time of less than orequal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN13624.

In some exemplary embodiments, the C₁₋₈ alcohol is one or more ofmethanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, and isomers andmixtures thereof.

In some exemplary embodiments, the C₁₋₈ alcohols is present in an amountfrom about 20.0 to about 70.0 wt. %, or from about 35.0 to about 50.0wt. %, based on the weight of the disinfecting composition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a pH adjuster, which can be an organic acid, such as citricacid. In some exemplary embodiments, the pH adjuster is present in anamount from 0.05 to about 5.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of thedisinfecting composition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a chelating agent, which can comprise L-glutamic acidN,N-diacetic acid, tetrasodium salt (GLDA). In some exemplaryembodiments, the chelating agent is present in an amount from about0.001 to about 3.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of the disinfectingcomposition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a solubilizing agent, such as propylene glycol. In someexemplary embodiments, the solubilizing agent is present in an amountfrom about 0.01 to about 5.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of thedisinfecting composition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a carrier, such as water.

In some exemplary embodiments, the individual surfactants are present anamount below about 5.0 wt. %, or about 3.5 wt. %, or about 2.8 wt. %, orabout 2.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of the disinfectingcomposition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the total quantity of ethoxylatedsurfactants does not exceed 50% or about 30% of the total quantity ofsurfactants, based on the weight of the alcohol.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition must only belabeled GHS/H319 (irritating to eyes) and GHS02/H225 (flammable) or onlyGHS/H319 (irritating to eyes) under the Globally Harmonized System. Insome exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition does not needto be environmentally labeled under the Globally Harmonized System.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes theEN 1276 and EN 13727 standard for bacterial efficacy at 40% and 80%concentration

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes theEN 1650 and the EN 13624 standard for fungicidal efficacy at 80%concentration.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes theEN 13697 standard for bacterial & fungicidal/yeasticidal efficacy at100% concentration

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition isessentially free of hydrogen peroxide, peracetic acid, and/orphosphonate surfactants.

According to some exemplary embodiments, a disinfecting composition isprovided which is certified as a natural detergent according to theECOCERT standard. The disinfecting composition comprises at least about20 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols, one or more chelating agents, andat least one anionic surfactant, at least one non-ionic surfactant, andat least one amphoteric surfactant. The disinfecting composition passesone or more of the following European standards at a contact time ofless than or equal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN1650, and EN 13624.

According to some exemplary embodiments, a disinfecting composition isprovided which is certified as a natural detergent according to theECOCERT standard. The disinfecting composition comprises at least about20 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols, one or more pH adjusters, and atleast three surfactants where each of the surfactants has one or more ofa betaine group, a sulfate group, and a glucose group. The disinfectingcomposition passes one or more of the following European standards at acontact time of less than or equal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN 13624.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill inthe art to which this application pertains. Although other methods andmaterials similar or equivalent to those described herein may be used inthe practice or testing of the exemplary embodiments, exemplary suitablemethods and materials are described below. In case of conflict, thedefinitions included in the present specification will control. Inaddition, the materials, methods, and examples are illustrative only andnot intended to be limiting of the general inventive concepts.

The terminology as set forth herein is for description of the exemplaryembodiments only and should not be construed as limiting the applicationas a whole. Unless otherwise specified, “a,” “an,” “the,” and “at leastone” are used interchangeably. Furthermore, as used in the descriptionof the application and the appended claims, the singular forms “a,”“an,” and “the” are inclusive of their plural forms, unless contradictedby the context surrounding such.

The term about “about” means within +/−10% of a value, or morepreferably, within +/−5% of a value, and most preferably within +/−1% ofa value.

The phrase “log kill” or “log reduction” refers to a logarithmicreduction of colony forming units (CFUs) on a given location. Logarithmscales are based on a base of 10 raised to a given power (i.e., Log 4means 10⁴ or 10,000). In terms of reduction, a reduction of 1-log (90%)reduces the CFUs on a particular area from 1,000,000 to 100,000, areduction of 2-log (99%) reduces the CFUs on a particular area from1,000,000 to 10,000, a reduction of 3-log (99.9%) reduces the CFUs on aparticular area from 1,000,000 to 1,000, and a reduction of 4-log(99.99%) reduces the CFUs on a particular area from 1,000,000 to 100.

The general inventive concepts relate to a disinfecting composition thatcan be used on a wide variety of surfaces to kill or reduce the presenceof pathogens such as bacteria, yeast, and fungi.

In some exemplary embodiments, the individual components of thedisinfecting composition are chosen to ensure that the overallcomposition complies with ECOCERT labeling standards. ECOCERT is anorganic certification organization that certifies and inspects variousproducts including food/food products, cosmetics, detergents, perfumes,and textiles. ECOCERT has two levels of certification fordisinfecting/detergent compositions, including natural detergent andnatural detergent made with organic level. Generally, to be naturaldetergent certified, a composition must meet the following conditions:(1) the composition contains a maximum of 5% of synthetic ingredients inthe restrictive list and (2) no environmentally risky statement mustaccompany the final product. Generally, to be natural, with organiclevel, detergent certified, a composition must meet the followingconditions: (1) 95% of the ingredients in the composition must be ofnatural origin, (2) 10% of the ingredients in the composition must comefrom organic farming, and (3) no risky statements must accompany thefinal product. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfectingcomposition is certified as a natural detergent by ECOCERT Greenlifeaccording to the ECOCERT standard available athttp://detergents.ecocert.com/en. In some exemplary embodiments, thedisinfecting composition is certified as a natural detergent withorganic level by ECOCERT Greenlife according to the ECOCERT standardavailable at http://detergents.ecocert.com/en.

The disinfecting composition according to the exemplary embodimentsdisclosed herein may be employed on a wide variety of surfaces orsubstrates, such as, for example, hard surfaces, soft surfaces,non-living (inanimate) surfaces, soil, porous, and non-porous surfaces.The disinfecting composition may be employed to disinfect or otherwisesanitize inanimate objects such as instruments, medical equipment,furniture, handrails, and the like. In some exemplary embodiments, thedisinfecting composition can be used in ambulances, bathrooms,healthcare facilities, retirement homes, daycare centers, and onindustrial premises.

The physical form of the disinfectant composition is not particularlylimited, and in one or more embodiments, the composition may bepresented as a liquid that is poured, pumped, sprayed, or otherwisedispensed; a gel; an aerosol; a solid bar or stick; or a foam, includingboth aerosol and non-aerosol foams. A wide variety of vehicles may beused to deliver the disinfecting composition, such as, for example pads,tissue, towel, sticks, aerosol dispersers, pump sprays, trigger sprays,canisters, foam pumps, wipes, and the like. The disinfecting compositionmay be applied to the surface before, during, or after surface cleaning.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition is analcohol-based composition comprising an alcohol or combination ofalcohols. By alcohol, it is meant any organic compound which has ahydroxyl functional group bonded to a saturated carbon atom. Alcohol hasantimicrobial properties and has the ability to kill many forms ofbacteria, fungi, and viruses. In some embodiments, the alcohol is a C₁₋₈alcohol, i.e. an alcohol containing 1 to 8 carbon atoms. Such alcoholsmay be referred to as lower alkanols. Examples of lower alkanolsinclude, but are not limited to, methanol, ethanol, propanol, butanol,pentanol, hexanol, and isomers and mixtures thereof. The alcohol may beeither pure alcohol or denatured alcohol. The alcohol can further belinear or branched. For example, the branched alcohol can beisopropanol, isoamyl alcohol, 2-methyl-1-pentanol, 2-methyl-1-butanol,and the like. In one or more exemplary embodiments, the alcoholcomprises ethanol, propanol, or butanol, or isomers or mixtures thereof.In one or more exemplary embodiments, the alcohol comprises isopropanol.In other exemplary embodiments, the alcohol comprises ethanol. In one ormore exemplary embodiment, the disinfecting composition comprises amixture of alcohols. In one or more exemplary embodiments, thedisinfecting composition comprises a mixture of ethanol and isopropanol.

While C₁₋₈ alcohols are discussed herein, it is envisioned that longeralcohols (alcohols with more than 8 carbon atoms), or alcohols withvarious other functional groups would be similarly suitable. Theselonger alcohols can further be linear or branched. For example, inaddition to the hydroxyl functional group, the alcohol may furthercontain esters, carboxylic acids, ethers, amides, amines, alkyl halides,phenyls, as well as other carbonyl-containing functional groups. Thealcohol can also be an aliphatic alcohol or an aromatic alcohol.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition is analcohol-water based composition, comprising one or more C₁₋₈ alcoholsand water. These systems are often referred to as hydroalcoholicsystems.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises atleast about 10.0 percent by weight (wt. %) C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at leastabout 20.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least about 35.0 wt. % C₁₋₈alcohol, or at least 40.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least 42.0 wt. %C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least 48.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least about50.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least about 60.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, orat least about 65.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least about 70.0 wt. %C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least about 80.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at leastabout 85.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, or at least about 90.0 wt. % C₁₋₈alcohol, based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition. Insome exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises fromabout 20.0 to about 70.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol or from about 30.0 to about60.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, based on the total weight of the disinfectingcomposition. In one exemplary embodiment, the disinfecting compositioncomprises from about 35.0 to about 55.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, based on thetotal weight of the disinfecting composition. In one exemplaryembodiment, the disinfecting composition comprises from about 40.0 toabout 50.0 wt. % C₁₋₈ alcohol, based on the total weight of thedisinfecting composition. In another exemplary embodiment, thedisinfecting composition comprises from about 42.0 to about 48.0 wt. %C₁₋₈ alcohol, based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition.More or less alcohol may be required in certain instances, dependingparticularly on other ingredients and/or the amounts thereof employed inthe disinfecting composition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprisesone or more carriers. The carrier can be any suitable compound able toeffectively deliver and/or transport the disinfecting composition. Insome exemplary embodiments, the carrier is water or a base cleaner.Other carriers, such as saline, inorganic salt solutions, fatty esters,ethers, amides, acetates, silicones, triglycerides, and varioushydrocarbons. In other exemplary embodiments, the disinfectingcomposition does not include any carrier and is delivered as aconcentrate.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition includeswater as the carrier. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfectingcomposition comprises at least about 1.0 wt. % of a carrier, or at leastabout 10.0 wt. % of a carrier, or at least about 20.0 wt. % of acarrier, or at least about 30.0 wt. % of a carrier, or at least about35.0 wt. % of a carrier, or at least about 40.0 wt. % of a carrier, orat least about 50.0 wt. % of a carrier, or at least about 60.0 wt. % ofa carrier, or at least about 70.0 wt. % of a carrier, or at least about80.0 wt. % of a carrier, or at least about 85.0 wt. % of a carrier,based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition. In someexemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises from about30.0 wt. % to about 60.0 wt. % of a carrier, or from about 35.0 to about55.0 wt. % of a carrier, or from about 40.0 to about 50.0 wt. % of acarrier, based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition. Moreor less of a carrier may be required in certain instances, dependingparticularly on other ingredients and/or the amounts thereof employed inthe disinfecting composition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises one or more surfactants. The surfactant can be any type ofsurfactant, including, but not limited to, nonionic surfactants,cationic surfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, amphoteric surfactants,and anionic surfactants. Nonionic surfactants, i.e., surfactants whichare uncharged (neutral) and without cationic or anionic sites can beused. The surfactant can also be an anionic surfactant, which carry anegative charge and ionize in solution. The surfactant can also be acationic surfactant, which carry a positive charge and ionize insolution. The surfactant can also be an amphoteric surfactant, whichhave the ability to be anionic (negatively charged), cationic(positively charged), or nonionic (uncharged, neutral) in solutiondepending on the pH. The surfactant can also be a zwitterionicsurfactant, which is a neutral molecule with both positive and negativecharges. These surfactants have both ionic states simultaneously. Insome exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises amixture of different types of surfactants (e.g., one or more anionicsurfactants and one or more non-ionic surfactants). In other exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises a mixture of thesame type of surfactants (e.g., a mixture of non-ionic surfactants). Inanother exemplary embodiment, the disinfecting composition comprises amixture of an anionic surfactant, a non-ionic surfactant, and anamphoteric surfactant.

In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is one that comprises asulfate or sulfonate group on one end of the surfactant molecule (thesemolecules are referred to herein as “sulfate surfactants”). Thesurfactant can include any number of other functional groups in additionto the sulfate or sulfonate groups. In some exemplary embodiments, thesulfate/sulfonate surfactant includes a hydrophobic end, such as a longhydrocarbon chain. Examples of these compounds include alkylbenzenesulfonates, alkyl sulfates, and alkyl ether sulfates. In other exemplaryembodiments, the surfactant is one that has two hydrophobic tails, suchas sulfosuccinates. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is oneor more of sodium laureth sulfate, sodium coco sulfate, sodium laurylether sulfate, sodium cocoyl sulfate, sodium trideceth sulfate,lignosulfonates, and sodium lauryl sulfate. A number of thesesurfactants are available from BASF SE of Ludwigshafen, Germany, underthe tradename Texapon®. While the sodium versions of these molecules arelisted herein, it is to be appreciated that any other suitablecounter-ion can be used, such as ammonium. In some exemplaryembodiments, the surfactant is sodium laureth sulfate.

In some other exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is a glycoside,which is a molecule formed from a simple sugar and an addition compoundthough replacement of a hydroxyl group on the sugar (these molecules arereferred to herein as “glycoside surfactants”). In some exemplaryembodiments, the simple sugar in the glycoside is glucose. Thesecompounds are commonly referred to as glucosides. In some exemplaryembodiments, the glucoside surfactant includes a hydrophobic end, suchas a long hydrocarbon chain. The surfactant can include any number ofother functional groups in addition to the simple sugar that is attachedto the hydrophobic end. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant isa polyglucoside, such as an alkylpolyglucoside, including a C₈-C₁₆alkylpolyglucoside. The surfactant can be any type of alkylpolyglucosideand can contain any number of carbon atoms and additional functionalgroups. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is one or more ofcoco-glucoside, lauryl glucoside, caprylyl capryl glucoside, and decylglucoside. A number of these surfactants are available from BASF SEunder the tradename Plantacare®. In some exemplary embodiments, thesurfactant is a C₈-C₁₆ alkylpolyglucoside, such as coco-glucoside.

In some other exemplary embodiments, the surfactant contains at leastone betaine group (these molecules are referred to herein as “betainesurfactants”). The betaine group can be any neutral compound with apositively charged cationic functional group. In some exemplaryembodiments, the cationic functional group is a quaternary ammonium or aphosphonium cation. The betaine surfactant can include any number ofother functional groups in addition to the positively charged cationicfunctional group. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is oneor more of cocamidopropyl betaine, lauryl betaine, myristyl betaine,coco-betaine, lauramidopropyl betaine, oleyl betaine, capric amidopropylbetaine, myristic amidopropyl betaine, and soyamidopropyl betaine. Anumber of these surfactants are available from BASF SE under thetradename Dehyton®. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant iscocamidopropyl betaine.

Other non-limiting exemplary examples of surfactants include sodiumcocoyl isothionate, sodium cocoyl glycinate, cocamidopropylhydroxysultaine, PEG-80 sorbitan laurate, di-alkyl sulfosuccinate,disodium cocoamphodiacetate, and PEG-80 sodium laurate.

In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant is a mixture of one ormore sulfate surfactants, one or more glycoside surfactants, and one ormore betaine surfactants. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactantis a mixture of sodium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and aC₈-C₁₆ alkylpolyglucoside.

In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactant or mixture of varioussurfactants is chosen such that the total quantity (anionic andnon-ionic) of ethoxylated surfactants does not exceed 50% (of the massof the alcohol active material) of the total quantity of surfactants. Inother exemplary embodiments, the surfactant or mixture of varioussurfactants is chosen such that the total quantity (anionic andnon-ionic) of ethoxylated surfactants does not exceed 30% (of the massof the alcohol active material) of the total quantity of surfactants. Inother exemplary embodiments, all surfactants in the disinfectingcomposition are ethoxylated less than 8 times. In still other exemplaryembodiments, all surfactants in the disinfecting composition are ofnatural origin as defined by ECOCERT. These conditions are satisfied inthe disinfecting composition to meet one or more of the ECOCERT labelingrequirements.

As will be appreciated by one of skill in the art, the total amount ofsurfactant will vary depending upon a number of factors, including theamount of other ingredients in the disinfecting composition. In someexemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition includes at leastabout 0.5 wt. %, or at least about 0.75 wt. %, or at least about 1.0 wt.%, or at least about 2.0 wt. % of one or more surfactants, based on thetotal weight of the disinfecting composition. In one or more exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises up to about 25.0 wt.%, or up to about 18.0 wt. %, or up to about 15.0 wt. %, or up to about12.0 wt. %, or up to about 9.0 wt. % of one or more surfactants, basedon the total weight of the disinfecting composition. In other exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition includes from about 2.0 wt. %to about 20.0 wt. %, or from about 2.5 wt. % to about 18.0 wt. %, orfrom about 3.0 wt. % to about 13.0 wt. % of one or more surfactants,based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition.

As previously discussed, the total surfactant package can be comprisedof any number of individual surfactants. Each of the individualsurfactants can be added in any amounts such that the total amount ofthe surfactant aligns with the ranges disclosed herein. In someexemplary embodiments, each of the individual surfactants is added in anamount less than about 10.0 wt. %, or less than about 7.5 wt. %, or lessthan about 5.0 wt. %, or less than about 3.5 wt. %, or less than about3.0 wt. %, or less than about 2.8 wt. %, or less than about 2.0 wt. %,or less than 1.5 wt. %, or less than 1.0 wt. %, based on the totalweight of the disinfecting composition. In some exemplary embodiments,each of the individual surfactants is added in the same, or about thesame, or substantially the same, amount in the disinfecting composition.In other exemplary embodiments, the individual surfactants are added indifferent amounts from one another in the disinfecting composition. Insome exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises amixture of at least 2 surfactants, or at least 3 surfactants, or atleast 4 surfactants, or at least 5 surfactants, or at least 6surfactants.

In some exemplary embodiments, the combination of at least threesurfactants increases the efficacy of the alcohol against pathogens.This combination of at least three surfactants allows the alcohol tohave direct access to the particular pathogen. This occurs because thesurfactant combination sufficiently surrounds and breaks apart thedirt/soil, which allows the alcohol to act directly on the pathogeninstead of being blocked by the soil/dirt. Conversely, when less thanthree surfactants are used in the disinfecting composition, access tothe pathogen is more difficult because the soil/dirt is not sufficientlysurrounded and broken up and consequently, the efficacy of the alcoholis reduced.

In some exemplary embodiments, mixing low amounts (such as thosediscussed above) of at least 3, or at least 4, or at least 5, or atleast 6 individual surfactants helps the disinfecting compositionachieve a lower/better classification for the European Classification,Labeling, and Packaging (CLP) regulation than using a single surfactantat a higher concentration. The CLP regulation is a European regulationpromulgated in 2008 which adopted the Globally Harmonized System (GHS)for classification of chemical compositions. The GHS in an internationalhazard communication approach that provides criteria for classificationof chemical hazards and standardizes labeling of elements and safetydata sheets. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting compositionis classified as only GHS07/H319 (irritation to eyes) and GHS02/H225(flammable). In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting compositionis classified as only GHS07/H319 (irritation to eyes). In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition is not classified under anyGHS environmental classification. In other exemplary embodiments, thedisinfecting composition is not classified under any GHS classification.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition includes oneor more chelating agents. The chelating agent is not particularlylimited and can include any central atom with two or more coordinatebonds between a polydentate ligand. Both organic and inorganic chelatingagents can be used in the disinfecting composition. In some exemplaryembodiments, the chelating agent comprises one or more ofethylenediamine, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) and its salts,salicylic acid, polyphosphates, ascorbic acid. In some exemplaryembodiments, the chelating agent is L-glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid,tetrasodium salt (GLDA). A number of these GLDA chelating agents aresold by Akzo Nobel of Amsterdam, Netherlands under the tradenameDissolvine®. In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent ischosen to ensure the disinfecting composition is ECOCERT compliant. Insome exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent also helps to inhibitscale and scum and also acts a boosting agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the chelating agent is added in thedisinfecting composition in an amount up to about 10.0 wt %, or up toabout 5.0 wt. %, or about 2.5 wt. %, or about 1.5 wt. %, or about 1.0wt. %, or about 0.75 wt. %, or about 0.5 wt. %, based on the weight ofthe disinfecting composition. In some exemplary embodiments, thechelating agent is included in an amount of at least about 0.001 wt. %,or at least about 0.01 wt. %, or at least about 0.05 wt. %, or at leastabout 0.1 wt. %, or at least about 0.5 wt. %, or at least about 0.7 wt.%, based on the weight of the disinfecting composition. In someexemplary embodiments the chelating agent is added from about 0.001 toabout 3.0 wt. %, or from about 0.005 to about 2.0 wt. %, or from about0.01 to about 1.5 wt. %, or from about 0.1 to about 1.0 wt. %, or fromabout 0.25 to about 0.75 wt. %, based on the weight of the disinfectingcomposition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a solubilizing agent. The solubilizing agent is notparticularly limited and can include any compound which increases thesolubility of the various ingredients in the disinfecting composition.In some exemplary embodiments, the solubilizing agent is a member of theglycol ether family. In some exemplary embodiments, the glycol ether isformed from the combination of any suitable alcohol and ethylene oxide.In some exemplary embodiments, the solubilizing agent is propyleneglycol, butylglycol, butyldiglycol, diethylene glycol, methoxypropanol,methyldiglycol, ethylene glycol, and the like. In some exemplaryembodiments the solubilizing agent is a non-ionic surfactant and/or analcohol. In some exemplary embodiments, the solubilizing agent ispropylene glycol (propane-1,2-diol).

In some exemplary embodiments, the solubilizing agent also acts as astabilizer and distributor for the other ingredients in the disinfectingcomposition, allowing them to retain their functions even at lowertemperatures. In some exemplary embodiments, the use of propylene glycolas the solubilizing agent also increases overall efficacy of theproduct.

In some exemplary embodiments, the solubilizing agent is added in thedisinfecting composition in an amount up to about 10.0 wt. %, or up toabout 5.0 wt. %, or about 2.5 wt. %, or about 1.5 wt. %, or about 1.0wt. %, or about 0.75 wt. %, or about 0.5 wt. %, based on the weight ofthe disinfecting composition. In some exemplary embodiments, thesolubilizing agent is included in an amount of at least about 0.001 wt.%, or at least about 0.01 wt. %, or at least about 0.05 wt. %, or atleast about 0.1 wt. %, or at least about 0.5 wt. %, or at least about0.7 wt. %, based on the weight of the disinfecting composition. In someexemplary embodiments the solubilizing agent is added from about 0.01 toabout 5.0 wt. %, or from about 0.1 to about 3.0 wt. %, or from about0.25 to about 2.5 wt. %, or from about 0.5 to about 2.0 wt. %, or fromabout 0.75 to about 1.8 wt. %, based on the weight of the disinfectingcomposition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a pH adjuster. The pH adjuster is not particularly limited andcan be selected based on the composition of the disinfectingcomposition, such as, specifically, the percentage of alcohol in thesystem. The pH adjuster can be an acid or base and in this way can beused to adjust the pH in either direction (i.e., make the compositionmore acidic or more basic). In some exemplary embodiments, the pHadjuster is a long chain hydrocarbon with two or more carbon atoms. Thehydrocarbon can be branched or straight and can also be cyclic orlinear. The hydrocarbon can have any number of various other functionalgroups including, but not limited to, amines, esters, carboxylic acids,ethers, amides, alkyl halides, alcohols, phenyls, as well as othercarbonyl-containing functional groups. The hydrocarbon molecule can beanionic, cationic, or non-ionic.

In some exemplary embodiments the pH adjuster is an acidic compound,that lowers the pH of the composition. Exemplary acidic pH adjustersinclude, but are not limited to, organic acids, mineral acids, andinorganic acids. In some exemplary embodiments, the acid is citric acid,lactic acid, formic acid, acetic acid, proponic acid, butyric acid,caproic acid, oxalic acid, maleic acid, benzoic acid, malonic acid,glycolic acid, propanoic acid, tartaric acid, carbonic acid, adipicacid, benzene 1,3,5 tricarboxylic acid, chlorosuccinic acid, cholinechloride, cw-aconitic acid, citramalic acid, cyclobutane 1,1,3,3tetracarboxylic acid, cyclohexane 1,2,4,5 tetracarboxylic acid,cyclopentane 1,2,3,4 tetracarboxylic acid, diglycolic acid, fumaricacid, glutamic acid, glutaric acid, glyoxylic acid, isocitric acid,ketomalonic acid, malic acid, nitrilotriacetic acid, oxalacetic acid,phytic acid, p-toluenesulfonic acid, salicylic acid, succinic acid,tartronic acid, tetrahydrofuran 2,3,4,5 tetracarboxylic acid,tricarballylic acid, versene acids, 3-hydroxyglutaric acid,2-hydroxypropane 1,3 dicarboxylic acid, glyceric acid, furan 2,5dicarboxylic acid, 3,4-dihydroxyfuran-2,5 dicarboxylic acid,3,4-dihydroxytetrahydrofuran-2,5-dicarboxylic acid, 2-oxo-glutaric acid,glyceric acid, and 2,5 furandicarboxylic acid. In some exemplaryembodiments, the pH adjuster is citric acid.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises atleast about 0.005 wt. % of the pH adjuster, or at least about 0.01 wt.%, or at least about 0.02 wt. %, or at least about 0.04 wt. %, or atleast about 0.06 wt. %, or at least about 0.08 wt. %, or at least about0.1 wt. %, or at least about 0.5 wt. %, or at least about 0.7 wt. %, orat least about 1.0 wt. %, or at least about 1.5 wt. %, or at least about2.0 wt. %, or at least about 5.0 wt. % of the pH adjuster, based on thetotal weight of the disinfecting composition. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises from about 0.05 wt.% to about 5.0 wt. % of the pH adjuster, or from about 0.1 wt. % toabout 3.5 wt. % of the pH adjuster, or from about 0.5 wt. % to about 3.0wt. % of the pH adjuster, or from about 1.0 wt. % to about 2.5 wt. % ofthe pH adjuster, or from about 1.2 to about 2.0 wt. % of the pHadjuster, based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a fragrance. Any scent may be used in the disinfectingcomposition including, but not limited to, any scent classification on astandard fragrance chart, such as floral, oriental, woody, and fresh.Exemplary scents include cinnamon, clove, lavender, peppermint,rosemary, thyme, thieves, lemon, citrus, coconut, apricot, plum,watermelon, ginger, cranberry, and combinations thereof.

In some exemplary embodiments, the fragrance is included in thedisinfecting composition in an amount from about 0.005 wt. % to about5.0 wt. %, in other embodiments, from about 0.01 wt. % to about 3.0 wt.%, and in other embodiments, from about 0.05 wt. % to about 1.0 wt. %,based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition. The fragrancecan be any made of any perfume, essential oil, aroma compounds,fixatives, terpenes, solvents, and the like. In some exemplaryembodiments, the essential oils may include, for example, one or more ofLimonene, Citrus Aurantium Dulcis (Orange) Peel Oil, Eucalyptus GlobulusLeaf Oil, Citrus Grandis (Grapefruit) Peel Oil, Linalool, Litsea CubebaFruit Oil, Lavandula Hybrida Oil, Abies Sibirica Oil, Mentha CitrataLeaf Extract, Coriandrum Sativum (Coriander) Fruit Oil, Piper Nigrum(Pepper) Fruit Oil, and Canarium Luzonicum Gum Nonvolatiles.

The disinfecting composition may further comprise a wide range ofoptional ingredients that do not deleteriously affect the composition'sefficacy. For example, the disinfecting composition can further compriseabrasives, anticaking agents, antioxidants, binders, biologicaladditives, bulking agents, chemical additives; colorants, denaturants,drug astringents, emulsifiers, external analgesics, film formers,opacifying agents, plasticizers, preservatives (sometimes referred to asantimicrobials), propellants, reducing agents, solvents, surfactants,foam boosters, hydrotropes, solubilizing agents, suspending agents(nonsurfactant), detackifiers, dyes, and viscosity increasing agents(aqueous and nonaqueous). Examples of other functional classes ofmaterials useful herein that are well known to one of ordinary skill inthe art include solubilizing agents, sequestrants, keratolytics, and thelike.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition isessentially free of, or completely free of, peroxides, such as hydrogenperoxide. Hydrogen peroxide is an unstable compound that reduces theshelf life of compositions which it is included in. Hydrogen peroxide isalso an eye and skin irritant. By “essentially free of peroxides” it ismeant that the disinfecting composition contains no greater than 5.0 wt.%, preferably no greater than 1.0 wt. %, and more preferably no greaterthan 0.5 wt. % peroxides.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition isessentially free of, or completely free of, peracetic acid. By“essentially free of peroxides” it is meant that the disinfectingcomposition contains no greater than 5.0 wt. %, preferably no greaterthan 1.0 wt. %, and more preferably no greater than 0.5 wt. % peraceticacid. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition isessentially free of, or completely free of, phosphonate surfactants. By“essentially free of phosphonate surfactants” it is meant that thedisinfecting composition contains no greater than 5.0 wt. %, preferablyno greater than 1.0 wt. %, and more preferably no greater than 0.5 wt. %phosphonate surfactants.

The pH of the disinfecting composition is not particularly limited. Insome exemplary embodiments, the pH can range from about 1.0 to about12.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the pH ranges from about 2.0 toabout 9.0, or from about 2.5 to about 6.5, or from about 2.7 to about5.5. In some exemplary embodiments, the pH ranges from about 3.0 toabout 4.0. In some exemplary embodiments, the pH ranges from about 3.2to about 3.8, or from about 3.4 to about 3.6. In some exemplaryembodiments, the pH of the disinfecting composition is less than orequal to 6.5, less than or equal to 5.5, less than or equal to 4.5, lessthan or equal to 4.0, or less than or equal to 3.8, or less than orequal to 3.5. In some exemplary embodiments, the efficacy of thedisinfecting composition increases when the pH is from about 3.0 toabout 4.0, and especially when the pH is from about 3.2 to about 3.8, ascompared to an otherwise identical disinfecting composition with a pHoutside of these ranges.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises atleast 20.0 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols and at least threesurfactants. In some exemplary embodiments, the one or more C₁₋₈alcohols are added in an amount from about 20.0 to about 70.0 wt. % orabout 35.0 to about 50.0 wt. %, based on the weight of the disinfectingcomposition. In some exemplary embodiments, the surfactants include oneor more of anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, and amphotericsurfactants. In some exemplary embodiments, these surfactants are eachpresent in an amount below about 5.0 wt. %, or about 3.5 wt. % or about2.8 wt. %, based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition. Insome exemplary embodiments, all the surfactants in the disinfectingcomposition are certified natural by ECOCERT.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition furthercomprises a pH adjuster such as an organic acid. In some exemplaryembodiments the disinfecting composition further comprises a chelatingagent such as L-glutamic acid N,N-diacetic acid, tetrasodium salt(GLDA). In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting compositionfurther comprises a solubilizing agent, such as propylene glycol. Insome exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises acarrier such as water.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition isessentially free of hydrogen peroxide and/or peracetic acid.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises atleast 20.0 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols and at least threesurfactants.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises atleast 20.0 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols, a chelating agent, and atleast one anionic surfactant, at least one non-ionic surfactant, and atleast one amphoteric surfactant. In some exemplary embodiments, thiscomposition further comprises a pH adjuster, water and/or a solubilizingagent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition comprises atleast 20.0 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols, a pH adjuster, at leastthree surfactants, where each of the three surfactants has one or moreof a betaine group, a sulfate group, and a glucose group. In someexemplary embodiments, this composition further comprises a chelatingagent, water and/or a solubilizing agent.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition reduces thenumber of viable bacterial cells according to the methods set forth inthe NF EN 1276 (March 2010) test standard (“EN 1276”) at a concentrationof at least 0.1%. The EN 1276 standard is a European quantitativesuspension test method designed to evaluate the bactericidal activity ofa chemical disinfectant product under various conditions. Test organismsStaphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus hirae, andEscherichia coli are used to evaluate the particular disinfectant.Generally, a disinfectant must achieve a 5-log reduction in the numberof viable bacterial cells after exposure for less than 5 minutes to passthe EN 1276 standard. The EN 1276 standard, is available under licensefrom ANFOR—Norm'Info of Rue Francis de Pressense, France, the entiretyof which is incorporated herein by reference. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition is able to achieve at least a3-log reduction, or at least a 3.5-log reduction, or at least a 4-logreduction, or at least a 4.5-log reduction, or at least a 5-logreduction, or at least a 5.11-log reduction, or at least a 5.33-logreduction, or at least a 5.42-log reduction in the of viable bacterialcells according to the methods set forth in the EN 1276 standard at aconcentration of at least 0.1% or at least 40% or at least 80%. In someexemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes the EN 1276standard for bacterial efficacy at a concentration of at least 40% or atleast 80%. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting compositionpasses the EN 1276 at these concentrations after a contact time of about1 minute.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition reduces thenumber of viable bacterial cells according to the methods set forth inthe NF EN 13727 (March 2010) test standard (“EN 13727”) at aconcentration of at least 0.1%. The EN 13727 standard is a Europeanquantitative suspension test method designed to evaluate thebactericidal activity of a chemical disinfectant product for instrumentsused in the medical area. Test organisms Staphylococcus aureus,Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Enterococcus hirae are used to evaluate theparticular disinfectant. Generally, a disinfectant must achieve a 5-logreduction in the number of viable bacterial cells after exposure forbetween 1 and 5 minutes to pass the EN 13727 standard. The EN 13727standard is available under license from ANFOR—Norm'Info of Rue Francisde Pressense, France, the entirety of which is incorporated herein byreference. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting compositionis able to achieve at least a 3-log reduction, or at least a 3.5-logreduction, or at least a 4-log reduction, or at least a 4.5 logreduction, or at least a 5-log reduction, or at least a 5.15-logreduction, or at least a 5.28-log reduction, or at least a 5.31-logreduction in the of viable bacterial cells according to the methods setforth in the EN 13727 standard at a concentration of at least about 0.1%or at least 40% or at least 80%. In some exemplary embodiments, thedisinfecting composition passes the EN 13727 standard for bacterialefficacy a concentration of at least 40% or at least 80%. In someexemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes the EN 13727at these concentrations after a contact time of about 1 minute.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition reduces thenumber of viable fungicidal/yeasticidial cells according to the methodsset forth in the NF EN 1650 (March 2010) test standard (“EN 1650”) at aconcentration of at least 0.1%. The EN 1650 standard is a Europeanquantitative suspension test method designed to evaluate thefungicidal/yeasticidial activity/efficacy of a chemical disinfectantproduct under various conditions. Particularly, the EN 1650 standardmeasures the efficacy of the chemical disinfectant in food, industrial,domestic, and institutional areas. The test organism Candida albicans isused to evaluate the particular disinfectant. Generally, a disinfectantmust achieve a 4-log reduction in the number of viablefungicidal/yeasticidial cells after exposure for less than 15 minutes topass the EN 1650 standard. The EN 1650 standard is available underlicense from ANFOR—Norm'Info of Rue Francis de Pressense, France, theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition is able to achieve at least a2.5 log reduction, or at least a 3-log reduction, or at least a 3.5-logreduction, or at least a 4-log reduction, or at least a 4.5-logreduction, or at least a 4.52 log-reduction, or at least a 5-logreduction in the of viable fungicidal/yeasticidial cells according tothe methods set forth in the EN 1650 standard at a concentration of atleast 0.1% or at least 40% or at least 80%. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition passes the EN 1650 standardfor fungicidal/yeasticidial efficacy at a concentration of at least 80%.In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes theEN 1650 at these concentrations after a contact time of about 1 minute.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition reduces thenumber of viable fungicidal/yeasticidial cells according to the methodsset forth in the NF EN 13624 (November 2013) test standard (“EN 13624”)at a concentration of at least 0.1%. The EN 13624 standard is a Europeanquantitative suspension test method designed to evaluate thefungicidal/yeasticidial activity of a chemical disinfectant product forinstruments used in the medical area. The test organism Candida albicansis used to evaluate the particular disinfectant. Generally, adisinfectant must achieve at least a 4-log reduction in the number ofviable fungicidal/yeasticidial cells after exposure less than 15 minutesto pass the EN 13624 standard. The EN 13624 standard is available underlicense from ANFOR—Norm'Info of Rue Francis de Pressense, France, theentirety of which is incorporated herein by reference. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition is able to achieve at least a1.5-log reduction, or at least a 1.88-log reduction, or at least a 2-logreduction, or at least a 2.5-log reduction, or at least a 3-logreduction, or at least a 3.5-log reduction, or at least a 4-logreduction, or at least a 4.25-log reduction, or at least a 4.5-logreduction, or at least a 5-log reduction in the of viablefungicidal/yeasticidial cells according to the methods set forth in theEN 13624 standard at a concentration of at least 0.1% or at least 40% orat least 80%. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfectingcomposition passes the EN 13624 standard for fungicidal/yeasticidialefficacy at a concentration of at least 80%. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition passes the EN 13624 at theseconcentrations after a contact time of about 1 minute.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition reduces thenumber of viable bacterial, yeasticidial, and/or fungicidal cellsaccording to the methods set forth in the NF EN 13697 (June 2015) teststandard (“EN 13697”) at a concentration of at least 0.1%. The EN 13697standard is a European quantitative surface test method designed toevaluate the efficacy of a chemical disinfectant product on surfaces.The test organisms Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa,Enterococcus hirae, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans, are used toevaluate the particular disinfectant. Generally, a disinfectant mustachieve at least a 4-log reduction in the number of viable bacterialcells after exposure less than 5 minutes and at least a 3-log reductionin fungicidal cells in less than 15 minutes to pass the EN 13697standard. The EN 13697 standard is available under license fromANFOR—Norm'Info of Rue Francis de Pressense, France, the entirety ofwhich is incorporated herein by reference. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition is able to achieve at least a2.83-log reduction, or at least a 2.94-log reduction, or at least a3-log reduction, or at least a 3.5-log reduction, or at least a 4-logreduction, or at least a 4.5-log reduction, or at least a 5-logreduction, or at least a 5.5-log reduction, or at least a 5.59-logreduction, or at least a 6-log reduction, or at least a 6.5-logreduction, or at least a 6.68-log reduction, or at least a 6.95-logreduction in the of viable bacterial, yeasticidial, and/or fungicidalcells according to the methods set forth in the EN 13697 standard at aconcentration of at least 0.1% or at least 50% or at least 100%. In someexemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition passes the EN 13697standard for efficacy at a concentration of 100%. In some exemplaryembodiments, the disinfecting composition passes the EN 13697 at theseconcentrations after a contact time of about 1 minute.

In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfecting composition is able topass one or more of the following European standards after a contacttime of less or equal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN1650, and EN 13624. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfectingcomposition is able to pass at least 2, or at least 3, or at least 4 ofthese European standards after a contact time of less than or equal toabout 1 minute. In some exemplary embodiments, the disinfectingcomposition is able to pass all five European standards after a contacttime of less than or equal to about 1 minute. While the Europeanstandards generally require particular efficacies at 5 or even 15minutes of contact time, the disinfecting compositions according to theexemplary embodiments disclosed herein were surprisingly able to passthe same standards at contact times of less than or equal to about 1minute.

EXAMPLES

The following examples are included for purposes of illustration and arenot intended to limit the scope of the methods or compositions describedherein.

Example 1

Composition A was tested for its ability to kill bacterial strainsaccording to the test methods and procedures of the EN 1276 teststandard. Composition A is described in Table 1.

TABLE 1 Chemical Wt. % Water 44.20 Ethanol 96% 45.0 Sodium LaurethSulfate 2.8 Alkylpolyglucoside(C8-C16) 2.0 Cocamidopropyl Betaine 2.0L-glutamic acid, N,N-diacetic acid, tetrasodium salt 0.5 (Tetrasodiumglutamate diacetate) Propylene glycol (Propane-1,2-diol) 1.6 Citric Acid1.9

The bacterial efficacy of Composition A was tested at concentrations of80%, 40%, and 0.10%, each diluted in hard water (375 mg/kg CaCO₃).Contact time was set at 1 minute±5 seconds. The efficacy trials weretested in a mixture of bovine proteins at 3 g/L and the tests were runat 20° C. for each concentration.

The results are reported in Table 2, which shows the log reduction inviable bacterial cells after 1 minute of exposure to Composition A.

TABLE 2 Reduction in the concentration of number of viable cellsConcentration 80% 40% 0.10% Time of contact 1 minute 1 minute 1 minuteLog Log Log Test strain reduction reduction reduction Pseudomonas LogR >5.50 Log R >5.42 Log R <4.05 aeruginosa Staphylococcus Log R >5.33Log R >5.33 Log R <3.96 aureus Escherichia coli Log R >5.50 Log R >5.50Log R <4.13 Enterococcus hirae Log R >5.11 Log R >5.13 Log R <3.74

The results in Table 2 show that Composition A, at concentrations of 40%and 80% in water, was able to pass the EN 1276 standard, which requiresat least a 5-log reduction in the number of viable bacteria after lessthan 5 minutes of exposure. Particularly, Composition A, atconcentrations of 40% and 80%, were able to pass the EN 1276 standardand achieve log kills of at least 5.13 for all bacterial strains tested.

Example 2

Composition A was tested for its ability to kill bacterial strains onmedical related instruments/equipment according to the test methods andprocedures of the EN 13727 test standard.

The bacterial efficacy of Composition A was tested at concentrations of80%, 40%, and 0.10% each diluted in hard water (375 mg/kg CaCO₃).Contact time was set at 1 minute±5 seconds. The efficacy trials weretested in a mixture of bovine proteins at 3 g/L and sheep erythrocytesat 3 mL/L and the tests were run at 20° C. for each concentration.

The results are reported in Table 3, which shows the log reduction inviable bacterial cells after 1 minute of exposure to Composition A.

TABLE 3 Reduction in the concentration of number of viable cellsConcentration 80% 40% 0.10% Time of contact 1 minute 1 minute 1 minuteLog Log Log Test strain reduction reduction reduction Pseudomonas LogR >5.28 Log R >5.28 Log R <2.91 aeruginosa Staphylococcus Log R >5.31Log R >5.31 Log R <2.94 aureus Enterococcus hirae Log R >5.15 LogR >5.15 Log R <2.78

The results in Table 3 show that Composition A, at concentrations of 40%and 80% in water, was able to pass the EN 13727 standard, which requiresa 5-log reduction in the number of viable bacteria after 1-5 minutes ofexposure. Particularly, Composition A, at concentrations of 40% and 80%,was able to pass the EN 13727 standard and achieve log kills of at least5.15 for all bacterial strains tested.

Example 3

Composition A was tested for its ability to kill a fungus/yeast strainaccording to the test methods and procedures of the EN 1650 teststandard.

The fungicidal/yeasticidal efficacy of composition A was tested atconcentrations of 80%, 40%, and 0.10% each diluted in hard water (375mg/kg CaCO₃). Contact time was set at 1 minute±5 seconds. The efficacytrials were tested in a mixture of bovine proteins at 3 g/L and thetests were run at 20° C. for each concentration.

The results are reported in Table 4, which shows the log reduction inviable cells after 1 minute of exposure to Composition A at 20° C. foreach concentration.

TABLE 4 Reduction in the concentration of number of viable cellsConcentration 80% 40% 0.10% Time of contact 1 minute 1 minute 1 minuteLog Log Log Test strain reduction reduction reduction Candida Log >4.52Log R >3.15 Log R <3.15 albicans R

The results in Table 4 show that Composition A, at a concentration of80% in hard water, was able to pass the EN 1650 standard, which requiresat least a 4-log reduction in the number of viable cells after less than15 minutes of exposure. Particularly, Composition A, at a concentrationof 80%, was able to pass the EN 1650 standard and achieve a log kill ofat least 4.52 for the strain tested.

Example 4

Composition A was tested for its ability to kill a fungus/yeast strainon medical related instruments/equipment according to the test methodsand procedures of the EN 13624 test standard.

The fungicidal/yeasticidal efficacy of Composition A was tested atconcentrations of 80%, 40%, and 0.10% each diluted in hard water (375mg/kg CaCO₃). Contact time was set at 1 minute±5 seconds. The efficacytrials were tested in a mixture of bovine proteins at 3 g/L and sheeperythrocytes at 3 mL/L and the tests were run at 20° C. for eachconcentration.

The results are reported in Table 5, which shows the log reduction inviable cells on the given surface after 1 minute of exposure toComposition A at 20° C. for each concentration.

TABLE 5 Reduction in the concentration of number of viable cellsConcentration 80% 40% 0.10% Time of contact 1 minute 1 minute 1 minuteLog Log Log Test strain reduction reduction reduction Candida Log >4.25Log R <1.88 Log R <1.88 albicans R

The results in Table 5 show that Composition A, at a concentration of80% in hard water, was able to pass the EN 13624 standard, whichrequires at least a 4-log reduction in the number of viable cells afterless than 60 minutes of exposure. Particularly, Composition A, at aconcentration of 80%, was able to pass the EN 13624 standard and achievea log kill of at least 4.52 for the strain tested.

Example 4

Composition A was tested for its ability to kill various strains ofbacteria, fungi, and yeast on surfaces according to the test methods andprocedures of the EN 13697 test standard.

The efficacy of composition A was tested at concentrations of 100%, 50%,and 0.10% each diluted in hard water (375 mg/kg CaCO₃). Contact time wasset at 1 minute±5 seconds. The efficacy trials were tested in a mixtureof bovine proteins at 3 g/L and the tests were run at 20° C. for eachconcentration. The results are reported in Table 6, which shows thenumber of viable cells remaining after 1 minute of exposure at eachconcentration.

TABLE 6 Reduction in the concentration of number of viable cellsConcentration 100% 50% 0.10% Time of contact 1 minute 1 minute 1 minuteLog Log Log Test strain reduction reduction reduction Pseudomonas LogR >6.55 Log R >4.50 Log R <1.13 aeruginosa Staphylococcus Log R >6.95Log R 2.83 Log R <1.53 aureus Escherichia coli Log R >6.68 Log R 1.51Log R <1.26 Enterococcus hirae Log R >6.69 Log R 2.94 Log R <1.27Candida albicans Log R >5.59 Log R 0.63 Log R <0.17

The results in Table 6 show that Composition A, at a concentration of100%, was able to pass the EN 13697 standard, which requires at least a4-log reduction (bacteria) and 3-log reduction (fungi) in the number ofviable cells after less than 5 minutes (bacteria) or 15 minutes (fungi)of exposure. Particularly, Composition A, at a concentration of 100%,was able to pass the EN 13697 standard and achieve a log kills of atleast 6.55 for bacterial strains and a log kill of at least 2.59 for thefungicidal/yeasticidal strain.

Although exemplary embodiments have been described herein, it should beappreciated that many modifications can be made without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the general inventive concepts. All suchmodifications are intended to be included within the scope of theexemplary embodiments disclosed herein, which is to be limited only bythe following claims.

1. A disinfecting composition comprising: at least about 20 wt. % of oneor more C₁₋₈ alcohols; and at least three surfactants, wherein thedisinfecting composition is certified as a natural detergent underECOCERT standards, and wherein the composition passes one or more of thefollowing European standards at a contact time of less than or equal toabout 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN
 13624. 2.The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the three surfactantsinclude at least one anionic surfactant, at least one nonionicsurfactant, and at least one amphoteric surfactant.
 3. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the surfactants contain one or more of abetaine group, a sulfate group, and a glucose group.
 4. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the surfactants are one or more ofsodium laureth sulfate, cocamidopropyl betaine, and a C₈-C₁₆alkylpolyglucoside.
 5. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, whereinall surfactants are from natural origin as defined by ECOCERT.
 6. Thedisinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition passes all of the following European standards at a contacttime of less than or equal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN1275, EN 1650, and EN
 13624. 7. The disinfecting composition of claim 1,wherein the one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols is one or more of methanol,ethanol, propanol, butanol, pentanol, hexanol, and isomers and mixturesthereof.
 8. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the one ormore C₁₋₈ alcohols is ethanol.
 9. The disinfecting composition of claim1, wherein the one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols is present in an amount fromabout 20.0 to about 70.0 wt. %, based on the weight of the disinfectingcomposition.
 10. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein theone or more C₁₋₈ alcohols is present in an amount from about 35.0 toabout 50.0 wt. %, based on the weight of the disinfecting composition.11. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition further comprises a pH adjuster.
 12. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 11, wherein the pH adjuster is an organic acid. 13.The disinfecting composition of claim 11, wherein the pH adjuster iscitric acid.
 14. The disinfecting composition of claim 11, wherein thepH adjuster is present in an amount from 0.05 to about 5.0 wt. %, basedon the total weight of the disinfecting composition.
 15. Thedisinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition further comprises a chelating agent.
 16. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 15, wherein the chelating agent is present in anamount from about 0.001 to about 3.0 wt. %, based on the total weight ofthe disinfecting composition.
 17. The disinfecting composition of claim15, wherein the chelating agent comprises L-glutamic acid N,N-diaceticacid, tetrasodium salt (GLDA).
 18. The disinfecting composition of claim1, wherein the disinfecting composition further comprises a solubilizingagent.
 19. The disinfecting composition of claim 18, wherein thesolubilizing agent is propylene glycol.
 20. The disinfecting compositionof claim 18, wherein the solubilizing agent is present in an amount fromabout 0.1 to about 5.0 wt. %, based on the total weight of thedisinfecting composition.
 21. The disinfecting composition of claim 1,wherein the disinfecting composition further comprises a carrier. 22.The disinfecting composition of claim 20, wherein the carrier is water.23. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the individualsurfactants are present an amount below about 5.0 wt. %, based on thetotal weight of the disinfecting composition.
 24. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the individual surfactants are presentan amount below about 3.5 wt. %, based on the total weight of thedisinfecting composition.
 25. The disinfecting composition of claim 1,wherein the individual surfactants are present an amount below about 2.8wt. %, based on the total weight of the disinfecting composition. 26.The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the individualsurfactants are present an amount below about 2.0 wt. %, based on thetotal weight of the disinfecting composition.
 27. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the total quantity of ethoxylatedsurfactants does not exceed 50% of the total quantity of surfactants,based on the weight of the alcohol.
 28. The disinfecting composition ofclaim 1, wherein the total quantity of ethoxylated surfactants does notexceed 30% of the total quantity of surfactants, based on the weight ofthe alcohol.
 29. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein thedisinfecting composition must only be labeled GHS/H319 (irritating toeyes) and GHS02/H225 (flammable) under the Globally Harmonized System.30. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition does not need to be environmentally labeled under theGlobally Harmonized System.
 31. The disinfecting composition of claim 1,wherein the disinfecting composition passes the EN 1276 standard forbacterial efficacy at 40% concentration.
 32. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the disinfecting composition passes theEN 1276 standard for bacterial efficacy at 80% concentration.
 33. Thedisinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition passes the EN 13727 standard for bacterial efficacy at 40%concentration.
 34. The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein thedisinfecting composition passes the EN 13727 standard for bacterialefficacy at 80% concentration.
 35. The disinfecting composition of claim1, wherein the disinfecting composition passes the EN 1650 standard forfungicidal/yeasticidal efficacy at 80% concentration.
 36. Thedisinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition passes the EN 13624 standard for fungicidal/yeasticidalefficacy at 80% concentration.
 37. The disinfecting composition of claim1, wherein the disinfecting composition passes the EN 13697 standard forbacterial & fungicidal/yeasticidal efficacy at 100% concentration. 38.The disinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition is essentially free of hydrogen peroxide.
 39. Thedisinfecting composition of claim 1, wherein the disinfectingcomposition is essentially free of peracetic acid.
 40. The disinfectingcomposition of claim 1, wherein the disinfecting composition isessentially free of phosphonate surfactants.
 41. A disinfectingcomposition comprising: at least about 20 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈alcohols; one or more chelating agents; and at least one anionicsurfactant, at least one non-ionic surfactant, and at least oneamphoteric surfactant, wherein the disinfecting composition is certifiedas a natural detergent under ECOCERT standards, and wherein thecomposition passes one or more of the following European standards at acontact time of less than or equal to about 1 minute: EN 13697, EN13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN
 13624. 42. A disinfecting compositioncomprising: at least about 20 wt. % of one or more C₁₋₈ alcohols; one ormore pH adjusters; and at least three surfactants, wherein each of thesurfactants has one or more of a betaine group, a sulfate group, and aglucose group, and wherein the composition passes one or more of thefollowing European standards at a contact time of less than or equal toabout 1 minute: EN 13697, EN 13727, EN 1275, EN 1650, and EN 13624.